Even as skies begin to clear, eateries say the haze has already hurt business

With lunchtime approaching, Gerai Masakan Panas Che Daud in Taman Sri Rampai, Kuala Lumpur, would normally prepare for the midday crowd. However, at 11.40am, stall owner Che Daud Che Isa found himself serving just one customer. He attributed the decline in business to the ongoing haze, which has led to a significant drop in customer numbers. Many diners now opt for takeaway, avoiding the indoor seating altogether. Che Daud estimated that his customer base had dwindled by approximately half due to the poor air quality.

Similar challenges have been faced by eateries across the Klang Valley as the haze continues to impact air quality. Restaurant operators have reported fewer dine-in customers, falling sales, and a shift in dining habits. Some customers, particularly motorists waiting for car repairs, continue to visit these establishments, but their numbers are noticeably lower.

In Warung Paman Sol, near the Jelatek LRT station, owner Solihin Faeez Mohd Shukri reported a 20 to 25 percent decrease in daily income since the haze began. Families who typically dine in with their children have started sending someone to collect takeaway orders instead. Solihin expressed concern that prolonged haze could lead to lasting changes in customer habits, with some potentially opting for food delivery services over dining out.

Amir Habibur Rahman, owner of Miscusi Express in Shah Alam, noted a 35 percent drop in sales over the past week compared to their usual level. While takeaway and delivery orders remained steady, the loss of walk-in customers affected overall sales. The open-air establishment must frequently clean its premises due to the increased dust, and Amir is concerned about the potential health impacts of prolonged exposure to the haze on both customers and employees.

He hopes the haze will not last too long, as MetMalaysia director-general Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip predicted it could subside next week with improved wind direction and rainfall.